2006 Pontiac SV6: Road Test
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2006 Pontiac SV6 ▼
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- MSRP: $24,250 -$27,750
- Invoice: $22,674 -$25,946
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Our road test for the 2006 Pontiac SV6 includes a full evaluation of the 2006 Pontiac SV6 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2006 Pontiac SV6, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2006 Pontiac SV6 help you decide if a 2006 Pontiac SV6 is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| FWD Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 3 | 4.2 |
GM pegs its minivans at 10.5 sec 0-60 mph with front-wheel drive, 11.2 with AWD. The front-drive versions seem livelier than that, and compare well with most rivals. Heavier AWD models feel sleepy on takeoff, but have adequate power for most passing/merging needs.
FUEL ECONOMY
| FWD Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 4.2 |
No opportunity to measure. Similar test front-drive Uplander LT averaged 16.4 mpg in mixed city/highway driving. Test front-drive Relay 3 averaged 19.8 mpg with more highway use.
RIDE QUALITY
| FWD Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 5.8 |
All GM minivans comfortably absorb most bumps. Load-leveling rear suspension helps AWDs feel a bit more stable on the highway, so it's a worthwhile option for FWDs.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| FWD Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 4.7 |
GMs midpack among minivans, with somewhat lifeless steering at higher speeds and marked cornering lean, though no tippy feel. Braking smooth, progressive. AWD a boon in slippery conditions.
QUIETNESS
| FWD Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 5.7 |
Engine noise well-muffled. Tire noise quite low up front but noticeable behind, so kids might have a hard time hearing mom and dad. Side mirrors generate marked wind whoosh at any speed.
CONTROLS
| FWD Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 6 |
Gauges unobstructed, controls legible and handy. Switchgear and cabin materials show upscale flair, but not dashboard trays and drawers made of budget-grade plastic. Standard DVD entertainment a big plus for families with kids.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| FWD Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 6.7 |
Low step-in makes getting in or out a simple matter. Generous head and leg room. Fine outward visibility, helped by those large mirrors.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| FWD Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 6.8 |
Adult head and leg room in both rear rows. Narrow passage between middle buckets makes accessing 3rd row more awkward than in some competitors. Third-row seats too close to floor for best adult comfort, but fine for kids.
CARGO ROOM
| FWD Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 10 | 9.9 |
Second-row buckets are light enough for easy removal, but don't stow in floor. Instead, all rear seats fold level with a 4-inch-high rear cargo tray to make a mostly flat floor. Available cargo organizer helps keep small stuff in place, but GM's minivans have less storage space behind the 3rd-row seat than rivals with a hideaway-seat well.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| FWD Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 6.3 |
Though available 2nd-row side airbags are welcome, GM's minivans still lag Chrysler, Honda, and Toyota rivals in many key areas. But fair prices, a comfortable ride, and standard DVD entertainment make SV6 and its siblings worth considering if your budget is tight.
Total Score
| FWD Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 57 | 60.3 |
Total Score: 57
Scores for all Minivans














